The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Camarines Norte headed by OIC, PENR Officer Marlon C. Francia strengthens its Information and Education Campaign (IEC) about Rafflesia manillana through an interview aired over GMA News recently.

PENRO Francia said that the species is an endemic plant found in the Philippines and were seen at Mt. Guinatungan, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte, which blooms during the months of April and May.

Further, he explained that the gathering of Rafflesia, or any other plant, especially those which are endemic and extinct, are highly prohibited and the violation may result to imprisonment, payment of corresponding fines, or both.

“Rafflesia manillana is threatened by man-made forest destruction and the rare plant may also be threatened by indiscriminate cutting of the host vine and can be trampled upon by humans and animals. Therefore, we need to step up to protect and conserve this species,” PENRO Francia said.

Rafflesia manillana is an endemic plant species of the genus Rafflesia. This species was named after the city of Manila. It is typically found in lowland primary forest attached to a Testrastigma vine, but may also be attached on the vine above ground. It is listed as Critically Endangered in the DENR List of Threatened Species and needs serious conservation efforts. (With report from PENRO Camarines Norte)